Riyadh, Sha'ban 06, 1438H., May 02, 2017, SPA -- The joint Saudi-U.S. naval exercises (Maritime Union-17) began today at the eastern fleet of Jubail. The exercise was carried out by the Royal Saudi Navy, the Eastern Sector of the Border Guard, and the Fifth Fleet of the US Naval Forces. The exercise, which takes place in the Arabian Gulf, includes combat naval formations, engagement with hostile forces, protection of naval platforms, maritime monitoring and control. The Commander of the Naval Forces, Major General Abdullah bin Sultan Al Sultan, affirmed that such exercises are supported by Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, Deputy Crown Prince, Second Deputy Premier and Minister of Defense. He pointed out that the exercise of the maritime union is of great importance to the naval forces. It aims at exchanging military expertise and acquiring combat skills with the participating forces to develop the requirements of joint military action because of its active role in raising the level of military efficiency and improving combat readiness. The exercise is a continuation of previous joint exercises between the Saudi Royal Navy and naval forces in the Gulf Cooperation Council countries and brotherly and friendly countries. -- SPA 18:03 LOCAL TIME 15:03 GMT www.spa.gov.sa/w391380